Camping options near Landgrove, Vermont range from rustic national forest sites to full-service private campgrounds within a 30-minute drive. Located at approximately 1,600 feet elevation in the Green Mountains, this area experiences cool summer nights with temperatures often dropping into the 50s even in July and August. Most camping areas in this region open in late May and close by mid-October, with many offering both tent and RV sites.
What to do
Swimming at natural water features: Emerald Lake State Park Campground offers excellent swimming in its small lake with turquoise waters. One camper notes, "We try and get to Emerald Lake State Park at least a few times every summer. It's an awesome park for kids, and the turquoise water is a dream to cool off in. Swimmers can swim out to a small island in the middle of the lake and check out the rope swing."
Hiking through varied terrain: Jamaica State Park Campground provides access to several trails including a path to Hamilton Falls. "We hiked the west river trail (which leads right out of the campground) to Hamilton falls which is a gravel closed road that follows the west river upstream 2 miles to Hamilton falls trail which then leads up hill for another mile to the falls," reports one visitor who advises caution around the falls where fatalities have occurred.
River tubing and kayaking: Many campgrounds in the area feature river access for water activities. A visitor to Winhall Brook Camping Area shares, "The river is a constant lovely background sound and is wonderful to swim or just play in. Kids enjoy tubing the small rapids." This campground is uniquely situated where the Winhall River meets the West River, providing multiple water recreation options.
What campers like
Lean-to accommodations: Vermont's distinctive shelter structures are popular among campers visiting the region. At Jamaica State Park, one camper reports, "We managed to get a prime lean-to site right on the river. We were only there for an overnight but we will be back. The prime lean-to sites on the water are beautiful and spacious."
Privacy between sites: Emerald Lake State Park Campground provides a good balance of community and solitude. A visitor explains, "The site was large and clean, and relatively quiet even though it was a holiday weekend. We were a little confused about the No Dogs signs on the hiking trails, because it contradicted the pet policy on the park map that the ranger gave us."
Budget-friendly options: Some campgrounds in the area offer affordable camping without sacrificing natural beauty. Hapgood Pond in the National Forest is particularly economical. As one camper states, "You can stay in the National Green Mountain forest for only TEN DOLLARS A NIGHT. It's not the biggest campground, but it's never been too busy. I've always just filled in a slip and left my money in a box, so it's present relaxed and based on a trust system."
What you should know
Seasonal availability challenges: Most area campgrounds close during spring mud season. This creates limited options during April and early May when visitors might want to experience Vermont's maple sugaring season or early spring hiking.
Bathroom and shower facilities: Amenities vary widely among campgrounds near Landgrove. Camping on the Battenkill receives positive reviews for its facilities: "Facilities were spotless. The owners are so nice and welcoming. Great river for tubing or hanging out in the swimming hole."
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds in the area have limited connectivity. At Greendale Campground, visitors report almost no service, while some sites like Hapgood Pond offer minimal coverage: "A little bit of cell service (2 bars) with Verizon."
Bug pressure: Insects can be problematic, particularly in early summer. One visitor to Greendale Campground warns simply: "Bugs. Mosquitos. Black flies. Deer flies. All of them biting. Cool site, but super buggy."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Horseshoe Acres Campground offers multiple family-friendly amenities. A visitor reports, "Mini golf, playground and swimming pool for the kids. Three large field areas with lots of families and plenty of space for kids to meet others and ride bikes."
Group camping options: Some campgrounds accommodate large family groups well. Emerald Lake State Park has hosted organized youth activities: "We camped for two nights in Lean-tos with 20 Girls and Leaders. It's a great place to bring a Troop and use the lake and trails for badges plus cooking badges as well."
Family-friendly campsite selection: When camping with children, site selection matters. At Emerald Lake, one camper advises: "Many of them are perched on a steep ledge, making them a bit sketchy for families with kids. If you have little ones, check out the map before you reserve a site and find one on the opposite side of the ledge."
Tips from RVers
Access challenges for large rigs: Dorset RV Park presents some navigation difficulties for larger vehicles. A camper warns, "Larger rigs might want to avoid loop 6-14, especially for sites 8-12. Tree placement and a pretty sharp 110+ degree turn makes it challenging to maneuver."
Limited hookup availability: Full-service sites are scarce in campgrounds near Landgrove. At Winhall Brook Camping Area, one RVer notes: "There are a few sites with hookups but since we like to be near the river, we opted for other areas. There are some really nice tent sites set away from the RV sites that sit under large trees and have nice space."
Seasonal camping options: For longer stays, some private campgrounds offer seasonal arrangements. At Camping on the Battenkill, a seasonal camper shares: "Our site has S/W/E with cable and wifi, and is nicely shaded. We are here May 1-Oct12, and sad to leave every year and anxious to return every spring!"
